In this series of articles, we are explaining about alternative ways of resolving disputes concerning children where parents are not able to reach agreement between themselves.
This article will explain what a round table meeting is and whether it is appropriate in your particular case.
What is a round table?
A round table meeting is one of the ways that parties can negotiate between themselves to hopefully achieve an agreement.
It would usually take place at a solicitor’s office with both parties attending at the office of one of the solicitors. Both solicitors would be present to assist with the negotiation.
Usually, separate rooms are made available for each of the parties to have confidential discissions with their client and to enable them to provide them with advice.
The round table meeting is conducted on a without prejudice basis, which enables the parties and their solicitors to discuss the matter in the knowledge that what they discuss will not be used in court proceedings, if agreement cannot be reached.
The parties would come together with their solicitor into one of the rooms and all would sit around a table. Both solicitors would outline their positions. The parties would then be encouraged to discuss their respective positions and try to negotiate and reach agreement. If the parent needs further advice, the parties can break out of the room with their solicitors at any time during the process.
If agreement is reached, this can be drawn up into a written agreement which both parties can sign. Although not legally binding, this would form a starting point for both parties to work from moving forward.
Advantages of a round table
- It enables decisions to be reached between the parties
- The decision is agreed and not imposed on them
- It creates a collaborative approach
- It is usually quicker and cheaper than making a court application
- It is less stressful than going through the court process
- Solicitors can be present to advise and support
- If agreement is not reached, it would invariably narrow the issues
Disadvantages of a round table
- Any decision reached will not be legally binding – this will only be achieved with a court order
- The process can often take a day, maybe more to resolve. Both parties would need to fund their solicitors for a day, which is usually at their hourly rate
- If agreement is not reached, alternative methods of reaching agreement will need to be considered or a court application may still be needed
A round table may or may not be appropriate in your case. If you wish to discuss this or any other out of court dispute resolution with us, please do not hesitate to contact our Family Law team and we’d be happy to assist you.
The previous article in this series can be found here: ‘Solicitor assisted mediation in disputes regarding children‘.